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Detailed Comparison
SG90 vs MG996R: Choosing the Right Servo Motor
One is tiny and plastic, the other is large and metal. How much torque do you actually need for your robotic arm?
SG90 Micro Servo
VS
MG996R High Torque Servo
SG90 Micro Servo
The SG90 is a classic 9-gram blue micro servo motor. It is extremely lightweight and uses plastic gears.
MG996R High Torque Servo
The MG996R is an upgraded version of the famous MG995. It features full metal gears and massive torque.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | SG90 Micro Servo | MG996R High Torque Servo |
|---|---|---|
| Stall Torque | 1.8 kg-cm (at 4.8V) | 11 kg-cm (at 4.8V) / 13 kg-cm (at 6V) |
| Operating Speed | 0.12 sec / 60 degrees | 0.17 sec / 60 degrees |
| Gear Material | Plastic / Nylon | Brass & Aluminum Alloy |
| Weight | 9g | 55g |
| Rotation Angle | 180 Degrees | 180 Degrees (Continuous variants exist) |
| Operating Voltage | 4.8V - 6V | 4.8V - 7.2V |
| Price (India) | ₹80 - ₹120 | ₹350 - ₹500 |
SG90 Micro Servo
Pros
- Very cheap and accessible
- Extremely lightweight, perfect for RC airplanes and small pan/tilt mounts
- Fits into very tight spaces
- Can be powered directly from an Arduino 5V pin (for a single unloaded servo)
Cons
- Plastic gears are easy to strip/break under heavy load
- Low torque (cannot lift heavy objects)
- Known for minor "jittering" when trying to hold position
MG996R High Torque Servo
Pros
- Massive 11+ kg torque, capable of lifting robot arms and humanoid legs
- Metal gears are virtually unstrippable under normal hobby use
- Double ball bearing design makes it incredibly stable
- Better accuracy and return-to-center logic than older variants
Cons
- Heavy (55g) and physically large
- Requires an external power supply (Will crash an Arduino if powered from the 5V pin)
- Slightly slower than micro servos
Our Recommendation
Choose the **SG90** for sweeping ultrasonic sensors, locking small doors, moving light RC steering mechanics, or lightweight applications. Choose the **MG996R** for the joints of a robotic arm, driving the wheels of a heavy rover, or lifting heavy loads.
The Verdict
Never use an SG90 to lift heavy weights, and never use an MG996R without a dedicated 2A+ external power supply. Match the torque to the task.